Wow… it is time for an update!!!!

I didn’t realize my last post was all the way back in May. SORRY!!!!! A lot has been happening in my life for these last months and I have basically had my head down running full speed.

I have been very busy at my job as Coordinator of Volunteers at Catholic Charities. More and more volunteers are stepping up and our programs continue to expand and evolve. I have traveled to Oklahoma City and Houston to meet with my counterparts in each of those cities to learn as much as I can. I have also participated in some conferences and meetings with the local volunteer support group. There is a lot to learn and a lot to do. Also, the construction has begun on our new facility – YEA. I think they are to start pouring concrete very soon. Sounds like we will be in the new digs by next fall at the latest.

Musically I played at a coffee house in south Tulsa/Jenks every Thursday evening from June through August with my friend Bryan Smith. We had a good time and made a few bucks along the way. I have also played in a few different churches and diocesan events. God’s blessing of musical talent has been a gift I have tried to use to serve also. I recently played for a Mass celebrated by the Bishop for the Single Catholics of Tulsa and for the kickoff event for 40 Days for Life – a prayer vigil being held 24 hours a day for 40 days across from the abortion facility (learn more at www.40DaysForLife.com/Tulsa). I have also spent time there in prayer for all those affected by abortion and for an end to it. There are so many important things we can do that are so much bigger than us, and God has a way of letting us know what they are and when to take action – if we just listen and follow.

I will also be sitting in with the St. Anne’s Band – the band I was an original member of at my old parish – for their annual talent show/dance. I am just going to play on a few songs, which will be fun, but I am also going to do a talent piece of some kind. In the past I have done songs with a little humor like “I’m My Own Grandpa”, or “In the Jail House Now”. I am not sure what I will do, but God will give me an idea.

Now for some big news. I have purchased a home (well almost purchased – I close next week). God again blessed me with a place ready for me to move in, low cost, very good condition, and near work – all good things. New appliances, paint, tile, carpet, fixtures, etc., as well as a house that is in good structural shape. And I also got very good financing through my credit union so my out of pocket expenses will be minimal, as well as my house payment will only be a few dollars higher than the rent I am now paying. God is soooooooo good!!

I ask for your prayers for a few specific items. First, for Catholic Charities. It is time for our annual appeal and with all of the financial challenges in the economy, we need people to look past any fear and look to God’s work that needs to be done for the poor and needy. We are also going through transitions from our current location and organizational chart into the new facility and new organizational structure. God is in control but we all need to learn to listen to the Holy Spirit and make wise choices.

Next, pray for the Diocese of Tulsa led by Bishop Edward Slattery. As we continue to evangelize and serve the people of eastern Oklahoma, the bishop, priests, deacons, religious and laity need strength, grace and wisdom in living the good news of Jesus Christ our Savior. In a time of rampant individualism and narcissistic tendencies living in love and community does not seem like the norm. As Catholics/Christians we must stick closely to our faith and the lessons we learn about the dignity of life, the care we must offer those in need, and how we are the Body of Christ, so we must treat ourselves and each other with respect and honor. This seems abnormal in today’s world when, in fact, this is what the norm should be.

Lastly, I ask you to pray for our government leaders – and for those who will elect many to office in just over 6 weeks. God has His hand in all that is done in the world, but He also gave us free will to make our own decisions. We must pray for wisdom and discernment in our decisions and for our leaders to have that same discernment and wisdom in their governing. Though Washington, DC is very far away from some of us, what is done there affects us all, and especially affects those who are vulnerable and in need like the poor, the elderly, and those with physical and mental challenges. May we pray for strength to live out our baptismal call to serve those in need, whether the government is a part of that process or not.